The Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) has clarified that domestic airlines have not hiked airfares despite a sudden surge in passenger demand.
Responding to public concerns regarding rising ticket prices during recent natural disasters and travel disruptions, the association confirmed that all operating airlines continue to sell tickets within the price slabs prescribed by the government.
High Demand Exhausts Budget Tickets
According to AOAN, the perception of increased ticket prices stems from the rapid exhaustion of lower-tier, budget airfares due to extremely high demand.
In Nepal’s domestic aviation sector, ticket pricing operates on dynamic fare brackets set and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). When high demand occurs; such as during weather-induced ground transport blockages, landslides, or flood emergencies; lower-fare seats sell out almost immediately. Consequently, only higher-bracket fare tickets remain available, leading passengers to believe that rates have been arbitrarily raised.
The association reassured the public that no airline has breached the government-mandated upper price ceiling.
Prioritizing Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operations
Alongside scheduled commercial flights, private helicopter operators and aviation companies have prioritized disaster response efforts across affected regions in Nepal.
AOAN stated that domestic airlines and helicopter operators are working within their humanitarian and social responsibilities to assist with:
- Search and Rescue (SAR): Evacuating stranded individuals from flood- and landslide-affected areas.
- Relief Distribution: Transporting emergency medical supplies and essential goods to remote regions.
- Security Deployment: Transporting security personnel and emergency response units to hit zones.
Commitment to Fair Pricing
AOAN emphasized that domestic airlines remain committed to transparent pricing and corporate social responsibility during times of crisis. Passengers are advised to book tickets early and consult official airline channels or authorized travel agents to verify approved fare structures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are domestic flight tickets currently more expensive?
Fares haven’t increased beyond approved rates. High demand causes cheap, lower-tier tickets to sell out first, leaving only maximum-tier seats available.
Did airlines raise prices during recent disaster disruptions?
No. The Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) confirmed carriers are selling tickets strictly within government-mandated limits.
How are domestic airfares regulated in Nepal?
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) sets legal upper price caps for all domestic routes, which airlines cannot exceed.
Are helicopter operators assisting with disaster relief?
Yes. Private helicopter operators are prioritizing search and rescue, transporting medical supplies, and deploying security personnel alongside commercial flights.
How can travelers secure cheaper flights during peak demand?
Book early directly through official airline apps or agents, and check multiple carriers to catch lower fare brackets as they open.
